SEMATAN: Adventure enthusiasts and outdoor lovers gathered at the picturesque Pueh Youth Camp for the inaugural Borneo Outdoor Festival (BOF) and the seventh edition of the Sarawak Adventure Challenge (SAC) yesterday.
These events, celebrated as a joint extravaganza, showcased the natural beauty and thrill of Sarawak’s outdoors.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, graced the occasion, emphasising the significance of such events in promoting Sarawak as a prime destination for adventure and recreation.
The festivities kicked off as early as 6.30 am and drew a total of 860 participants, including both day-trippers and overnight campers.
The SAC is a one-day multi-sport event involving mountain biking and trail running.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Mt Pueh, this year’s race offered athletes ample challenges with diverse terrain and river crossings.
Local communities also played an integral role, with residents involved as course marshals and officials.
Competitors vied for attractive cash prizes and ‘bragging rights’ across a variety of mountain biking and trail running race formats and categories.
The feature race was the full Duathlon, requiring competitors to complete a 50km mountain bike section followed by a 12km trail running section.
The race showcased the diverse landscape, spanning from sea to mountain, splendid rivers, local communities, trails, and other attractions in the area.
On the other hand, BOF, a new addition for 2023, delighted attendees with product displays, expert-led workshops, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
Eighteen outdoor industry partners were on hand to demonstrate the latest equipment and share insights on skills and activities, offering a programme of workshops covering topics like equipment maintenance, camping skills, outdoor photography, nutrition, training, and new sports.
Attendees could also witness four-wheel drive (4WD) camping, outdoor equipment displays, wall climbing demonstrations, drone skills sessions, and more.
These events not only promote the adventure and recreation potential of Sarawak to international tourists but also engage and benefit local residents.
Sports tourism and recreation have the potential to showcase the stunning scenery and natural attractions Sarawak has to offer while fostering community involvement and cultural exchange.
Also present was Tanjong Datu assemblyman Azizul Annuar Adenan.
